Overwhelmed by DSLR choices? 1 Nikon vs 2 Canons?

I'm getting overwhelmed by all of the DSLR choices as I have not had an advanced camera before. If you only get a camera body, do you still need a lens to shoot? What lenses do you get? Is there regular lenses that you then add filters to or other attatchments? I want an affordable one that has basic features but possibility to improve. I've looked at the Canon Rebel T3 and T3i, so which one is better for me out of the 2 in the long run? Then, I was also looking at the Nikon D3100, so which is better, Nikon or Canon, and which Canon? What about lenses/filters/effects?

Yes you will need a lense to take pictures and videos. The lenses that come with the cameras are good enough for most things. It's usually a 18-55mm lense. Filters are added onto the lense such as polarising lenses, but make sure you get the right size for your camera lense. The T3i would be the best choice because it has many advanced features that the T3 doesn't and with it being a newer camera you won't have to upgrade for a long time. Also Canon's tend to be better when it comes to shooting video than Nikon's and pictures are pretty much the same between the two. But, the Nikon is a good price and has excellent reviews so it depends how much you want to spend.

The Nikon D3100 with 18-55mm kit lens is just around $500
add taxes + get a spare battery & a spare memory card

It should be good enough for quite some time
Don't need anything else right away

Lavish time and attention on the camera, click click & you learn faster
Read a few books, apart from user manual

In time you will know what you are missing and by then you know what lens you need next

Any and any DSLR is just fine, just a few features here and there

A camera without a lens is like a car without wheels. It will start up, but it won't go anywhere!
Your best bet right now would be the Nikon D3100 or Canon Rebel T3, both excellent entry level cameras at about $500. They both come with the now standard 18-55mm kit lens. I added on a 55-200mm for my Nikon D5000.
Except for the UV filter, I wouldn't suggest any others right now.

Just buy a Pentax - they take (and meter with) MF lenses. You also don't have to worry which AF lens autofocuses on your particular AF body (they all do) and you don't have to look for IS/VR lenses because the system's built into the body.

Be careful, though, unlike the 168, 000 other people who've asked this question, if you buy a Pentax, you may be confused with someone who can actually think for himself.

The Nikon D3100 is a better camera compared to the Canon T3 and T3i. But if you can increase your budget by $200. You could get the Nikon D5100.

Nikon D3100 Video Review
http://minimalio.com/nikon-d3100/

Nikon D5100 Video Review
http://minimalio.com/nikon-d5100/